12 young sheep farmers embark on NSA Ambassador programme
23rd January 2018
After its most competitive selection process yet, the National Sheep Association (NSA) is thrilled to announce the 12 young individuals selected to take part in its 2018 NSA Next Generation Ambassador programme.
The programme has gone from strength to strength since its launch in 2014 and is part of NSA’s wider Next Generation initiative, a dedicated area of work designed to encourage and support sheep farmers and service providers of the future.
As ever, individuals selected to take part this year come from all corners of the UK (pictured) and have taken a variety of different routes into the sheep sector. From a self-employed shepherd negotiating his way into buying a 620-ewe flock in one go to an individual making his mark on a family business by introducing EID performance recording systems.
The Ambassador programme will see the group take part in a series of technical and personal development sessions across the UK through the year, set to cover a diverse range of topics relating to the sheep sector. Developing a close working relationship with NSA will also form an important part of the programme, designed to benefit both parties in the future.
Joanne Briggs, NSA Communications Manager, says: “This year’s selection process has been one of our most competitive yet, making it extremely challenging to choose just 12 out of so many worthy candidates. It is a real credit to the industry to see such passion and enthusiasm shine through from the young individuals who apply, something we should be very proud of.
“NSA is thrilled to be embarking on the programmes fifth year, with thanks owed to the continued funding from NSA regions and ram sales alongside support from several delivery partners. We look forward to welcoming the 2018 group to their first delivery session in mid-February.”
It is vital the talent among the next generation of the sheep industry is cultivated to ensure fresh ideas and enthusiasm are brought forward, which is why NSA’s work under its Next Generation banner is so important.
Joanne concludes: “The NSA Next Generation Ambassador programme helps young individuals to further their careers, but also arms them with the confidence and communication skills needed to share their enthusiasm and passion for the sheep industry to a wider audience for years to come.”
The first of five NSA Next Generation Ambassador delivery sessions this year will take place in mid-February. Get to know each member of the 2018 group at www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk via the ‘Ambassador Group’ tab, where profile on each individual is listed.
